United Signs New Agreement with Starlink for Free Wi-Fi on 1000s of Planes

CHICAGO- United Airlines (UA) has inked a groundbreaking deal with SpaceX to provide free Starlink Wi-Fi across its entire fleet.

This unprecedented agreement aims to transform the in-flight experience for passengers, offering internet speeds comparable to those on the ground.

Photo: United

United to Offer Free Wi-Fi

The airline plans to equip over 1,000 aircraft with Starlink technology in the coming years. Testing will commence in early 2025, with the first passenger flights featuring the new service expected later that year.

Starlink’s advanced satellite network will enable gate-to-gate connectivity, even in remote locations and over oceans.

This leap in technology promises to revolutionize in-flight entertainment, allowing passengers to access live TV, streaming services, social media, online shopping, and gaming on both seatback screens and personal devices simultaneously.

United CEO Scott Kirby emphasized the transformative nature of this partnership, stating, “Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do onboard a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world.” He added that this enhanced connectivity would pave the way for more personalized content in every seatback.

SpaceX President and COO Gwynne Shotwell expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, highlighting the potential for passengers to enjoy “the world’s most advanced high-speed internet from gate to gate, and all the miles in between.”

As the largest airline across both the Atlantic and Pacific, United became the first carrier globally to commit to implementing Starlink service on such a massive scale. This move sets a new industry standard for in-flight connectivity, potentially reshaping passenger expectations for air travel in the digital age.

Photo: United Airlines

What to Expect?

United Airlines is set to revolutionize air travel with its new Starlink Wi-Fi service, offering passengers a range of high-speed connectivity options. The service will enable live streaming of personal content and live TV without buffering or lag, eliminating the need for pre-downloaded content.

Passengers will gain the ability to maintain workplace productivity by downloading, uploading, and editing shared files in real time. Gaming enthusiasts can engage in live gaming and follow gaming streaming services during flights.

The new Wi-Fi service extends to e-commerce, allowing passengers to shop online, schedule grocery deliveries, and make restaurant and travel reservations from their seats. Users can connect multiple devices under a single account.

Photo: United Airlines

United’s app, downloadable in-flight, will provide real-time connection information and access to customer support through Agent on Demand. The airline plans to integrate Starlink connectivity with its extensive seatback screen network, comprising nearly 100,000 screens across its fleet.

United’s new signature interiors feature 16-inch HD touch screens in United Polaris business class, 13-inch screens in United First Class, and 10-inch screens in United Economy. These screens offer content in over 20 languages. Additional amenities include Bluetooth connectivity, power outlets at every seat, larger overhead bins, and LED lighting.

The enhanced connectivity will benefit United’s frontline employees, including pilots, flight attendants, technicians, and gate agents. It will provide them with improved operational capabilities, especially in remote locations or during disruptions like power outages or natural disasters.

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